Welcome everyone! I recently joined the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training, a network of people 30,000-strong whose dedication enables them to participate in marathons, triathlons, and century rides as a means of raising money to fight leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Team in Training began in 1988, and since then has raised more than $430 million toward eradicating blood cancers. I am excited to be part of an organization that has done so much, not only for blood cancer research, but also for studies of all types of cancers.

I, for one, will be running a marathon - 26.2 miles! - in January 2005, in Houston. My goal is to raise $1600 toward research, patient services, and community and professional education. Why would I do this, you ask? Of course I will be healthier. Of course I will gain personal satisfaction from supporting an excellent cause. More importantly, however, I will honor three amazing people who battled leukemia and won: Thomas Molina (diagnosed age 3, now age 8), Daniel Bull (diagnosed age 19, died age 40 - motorcycle accident), and Donna Pitlik (diagnosed age 51, now age 62). Each person's history varies, but all share the qualities of courage, perseverance, humor, indomitable spirit, and joie de vivre that inspire me daily to do my best. Twenty-six miles may seem like a lot...until you consider the years of painful treatments these people endured in order to survive. This knowledge fuels my motivation to complete my part of the continuing quest for a cure.

That Thomas, Daniel, and Donna survived leukemia is a testament to the value of the work the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has done over the past 30 years. In the 1960s, only 14 percent of people diagnosed with leukemia would survive more than five years; today, that number is well over 80 percent. These incredible numbers are the direct result of contributions from people like you! I hope this knowledge will inspire and motivate you to give generously to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! Suggested donation levels are given here, however, no amount is too large or too small. All TAX-DEDUCTIBLE contributions are appreciated immensely! You may donate securely on this site with your credit card, or if you prefer, mail your check payable to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to Melissa Avery, 14831 Tilley St., Houston, TX 77084. Even if you are not in a position to contribute right now, please keep me in your thoughts over the next few months as I train - the positive energy is so beneficial! If you know of other blood cancer patients or survivors, please tell me their names - I will include them in my list of patient honorees. And PLEASE, PASS THIS EMAIL ON TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW! On behalf of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, thank you, thank you, thank you for your generosity! And my personal thanks for your continued support of my efforts!